Andrew Culp, a media theorist and CalArts educator, shares insights from his book, Dark Deleuze. The conversation navigates anarchism and post-structuralism, critiquing academia's simplifications. Culp emphasizes negativity as a pathway to transformation and discusses the rhizome model as an alternative to hierarchical structures. The dialogue also tackles the death of paradigms, digital dilemmas in social media, and the need for innovative engagement. Culp calls for a reimagined vision of communism, promoting diversity and pleasure in societal change.
Culp's journey into radical thought emphasizes the significance of practical political experiences over mere academic exposure in shaping beliefs.
The podcast critiques popular interpretations of Deleuze, advocating for the importance of embracing negativity as a key to revolutionary thought.
Culp aligns the non-hierarchical structure of anarchism with Deleuze's rhizome concept, promoting flexible networks over rigid political organizations.
The conversation challenges the optimistic view of digital connectivity, urging a re-evaluation towards fostering deeper, more meaningful online interactions.
Deep dives
Introduction to Radical Thought
The discussion revolves around Andrew Culp's journey into radical political thought, particularly through exposure during high school debate and influential academic encounters. His early experiences with political organizing contributed to his anarchist beliefs, shaped by interactions with various authorities in activist settings. The conversation highlights the evolution of political engagement and the importance of practical experiences that lead to deeper understanding rather than merely academic exposure. Culp reflects on how these formative elements propelled him into the contemporary landscape of anarchist and left-communist thought.
Revisiting Deleuze’s Philosophy
The exploration of Gilles Deleuze's philosophical framework reveals the nuances often overlooked in popular interpretations, particularly the 'canon of joy' that celebrates connectivity. Culp argues for a rehabilitation of negativity, emphasizing that cultivating a hatred for the current state of affairs is crucial for revolutionary thought. This involves not just embracing joy but understanding the destructive forces that underpin societal dynamics. The discussion challenges listeners to reconsider Deleuze's ideas and recognize the political implications intrinsic to his work.
Rhizomatic Structures and Anarchism
The conversation delves into the rhizomatic structure of social organizations, emphasizing the non-hierarchical and dynamic nature of social movements. Culp aligns Deleuze's rhizome concept with anarchist principles that resist rigid organization in favor of flexible networks. This perspective critiques the conventional need for structured, bureaucratic forms of organization commonly seen in political movements. Culp advocates for a transformation towards recognizing and adapting to emergent social patterns, much akin to the organic nature of rhizomatic connections.
Negativity as an Ethical Imperative
Culp introduces the significant role of negativity in political discourse, positing that embracing a stance of refusal toward intolerable conditions is essential. He critiques the tendency to celebrate positivity while ignoring systemic flaws, suggesting that hate toward detrimental systems is a valid and necessary response. This requires a conscious effort to reject the status quo and dismantle oppressive structures rather than merely working to improve them. The philosophical underpinnings of this critique frame negativity not as despair but as a motivating force for transformative action.
The Political Stakes of Connectivity
The podcast discusses the limitations of the hyper-connected digital landscape, marking a shift away from uncritical optimism about technology's democratizing potential. Culp argues that rather than fostering genuine community, contemporary connectivity often amplifies disconnection, leading to pervasive distress. He calls for a re-evaluation of our engagement with digital platforms to foster meaningful connections. This involves recognizing the fragile nature of our online interactions and striving for a deeper, more intentional mode of participation that transcends superficial exchanges.
Emerging Forms of Revolutionary Praxis
Culp emphasizes the need for new, exciting alternatives to capitalism that engage with transformative potential rather than merely reacting to societal issues. This idea resonates with ongoing global movements that experience moments of excitement and rebellion that challenge dominant structures. Drawing parallels with historical revolts, he underscores the necessity of experiments in radical politics that prioritize creativity and spontaneity. The conversation inspires a vision of a world where rebellion and excitement serve as catalysts for change, igniting revolutionary possibilities.
Towards a New Communism
The discussion culminates in the notion of a new form of communism that moves away from traditional concepts of democratic processes toward a more direct, insurrectionary approach. Culp argues that contemporary politics requires an abandonment of the faith in democracy as a vehicle for change, advocating instead for a radical collective action. This advocacy for a 'war machine' mentality embodies a call to arms for those disillusioned by existing political structures to find their agency in revolutionary tactics. By envisioning communism as a creative and conspiratorial act, Culp invites listeners to engage actively in dismantling oppressive systems to create an exciting and equitable world.
Dr. Andrew Culp is a Media Theorist In Aesthetics and Politics Teaching at CalArts. He was kind enough to join me to discuss his book, Dark Deleuze.
Links:
http://www.andrewculp.org/
https://www.upress.umn.edu/book-division/books/dark-deleuze
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